**Three Things the Ravens Accomplished This Offseason to Help Return to Defensive Dominance**
For years, the Baltimore Ravens were synonymous with defensive excellence. From the legendary units led by Ray Lewis and Ed Reed to the more recent squads that suffocated opposing offenses, Baltimore’s identity has been rooted in its ability to dominate on that side of the ball. However, last season saw uncharacteristic struggles—missed tackles, blown coverages, and a lack of consistent pressure all contributed to a defense that fell short of its usual standard. Recognizing the need for change, the Ravens’ front office went to work this offseason, making strategic moves to restore their defensive reputation. Here are three key things they accomplished to put themselves back on track.
One of the most glaring issues for Baltimore’s defense last season was its inconsistent pass rush. While the Ravens still managed to generate pressure at times, they lacked a true game-wrecker who could take over in critical moments. The departure of Za’Darius Smith in free agency a few years ago left a void, and though Odafe Oweh showed flashes, injuries and inconsistency plagued the edge group.
This offseason, the Ravens aggressively addressed the need for more disruptive forces up front. The biggest move was signing veteran outside linebacker **Jadeveon Clowney** to a one-year deal. While Clowney has never quite lived up to his draft hype as a former No. 1 overall pick, he remains a highly effective run defender and has shown he can still generate pressure (9.5 sacks last season with the Browns). His physicality and experience will be invaluable for a young group.
Even more impactful was the trade for **Roquan Smith** midseason last year, which not only solidified the linebacker corps but also allowed the Ravens to focus on adding another dynamic edge rusher in the draft. They did just that by selecting **Tavius Robinson** in the mid-rounds, a raw but explosive athlete with high upside. Perhaps the most underrated move was bringing in **Kyle Van Noy** late in free agency—a savvy veteran who knows how to win with technique and football IQ.
These additions, combined with the continued development of Odafe Oweh and David Ojabo, give the Ravens a deeper, more versatile pass rush. If healthy, this group has the potential to be far more disruptive than last year’s unit, which ranked in the middle of the pack in sacks.
The Ravens’ secondary was once the envy of the league, but injuries and departures in recent years left the group in flux. Last season, even with standout performances from **Marlon Humphrey**, the cornerback room lacked depth, and the safety position was inconsistent after the departure of **Chuck Clark**. Opposing quarterbacks often found ways to exploit mismatches, particularly in the slot and against younger defensive backs.
Understanding the need to shore up the back end, Baltimore made several calculated moves. The most significant was drafting **Kyree Jackson** in the first round. Jackson’s combination of size, speed, and physicality makes him an immediate candidate to start opposite Humphrey, giving the Ravens a much-needed lockdown presence on the outside. His ability to press and disrupt routes should help a defense that was too often picked apart in man coverage.
The team also brought in **Rock Ya-Sin**, a veteran corner who has quietly been one of the more reliable coverage defenders in the league. While not a flashy signing, Ya-Sin provides stability and experience, which will be crucial in high-leverage situations.
At safety, the Ravens doubled down on continuity by re-signing **Geno Stone**, who showed promise as a ballhawk last season. More importantly, they added **Marcus Williams** last offseason and now have a full year of him pairing with **Kyle Hamilton**, who is poised for a breakout season. Hamilton’s versatility as a hybrid safety-linebacker gives defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald the flexibility to disguise coverages and create confusion for quarterbacks.
These moves ensure that the Ravens’ secondary is no longer a weak link but rather a strength—one that can match up against the elite passing attacks they’ll face in the AFC.
Sometimes, the biggest improvements come not from personnel changes but from coaching and schematic evolution. Last season, the Ravens transitioned to a new defensive coordinator in **Mike Macdonald**, who brought a more varied approach compared to the aggressive, blitz-heavy style of Wink Martindale. While there were growing pains, the foundation was laid for a more adaptable system.
This offseason, the Ravens made sure to retain Macdonald, ensuring continuity in the defensive play-calling. More importantly, they added **Chuck Smith** as the outside linebackers coach—a respected pass-rush specialist who has worked with some of the league’s best edge defenders. His presence should help maximize the potential of Oweh, Ojabo, and Clowney.
Additionally, the Ravens are expected to incorporate more simulated pressures and disguised coverages, a hallmark of Macdonald’s system. By not relying as heavily on all-out blitzes, Baltimore can keep quarterbacks guessing while still generating pressure with four rushers. This approach should lead to fewer explosive plays allowed—a major issue last season.
Another underrated factor is the leadership within the locker room. The presence of veterans like **Roquan Smith** and **Marlon Humphrey** ensures that the defense plays with an edge. Smith, in particular, has already made his mark as the defensive signal-caller and emotional leader, setting the tone for a unit that wants to reclaim its intimidating reputation.
The Baltimore Ravens’ defense may have taken a step back last season, but this offseason was all about correcting those flaws. By bolstering the pass rush, reinforcing the secondary, and making key coaching adjustments, they’ve put themselves in position to return to the dominant form that once defined this franchise.
The additions of Clowney, Jackson, and Ya-Sin bring a mix of youth and experience, while the continued growth of Hamilton and Ojabo under strong coaching could elevate this unit to elite status once again. If everything comes together, the Ravens’ defense won’t just be improved—it could once again be the backbone of a championship contender.
For a team that prides itself on toughness, physicality, and defensive excellence, this offseason was a necessary step in reclaiming its identity. Now, it’s time to prove it on the field.
